#Japan #Shibuya #Shibuya Startups #DIG SHIBUYA #Pie Systems

Shibuya's Technological Leap Towards Boosting Inbound Tourism

Innovative collaborations are the lifeblood of modern economies, and in Tokyo's vibrant Shibuya district, an exciting initiative is set to unfold. From February 13 to 15, 2026, during the renowned festival "DIG SHIBUYA 2026," Shibuya Startups Corporation and Pie Systems Japan will launch an experimental project named "Inbound Tech Collective" aimed at enhancing inbound tourism through technology.

The Inbound Tech Collective Overview

The partnership involves Pie Systems, a startup based in San Francisco specializing in a digital platform for tax-free operations, and Shibuya Startups, an organization devoted to nurturing local businesses and innovative ideas. Together, they will leverage technology to improve the ease of access for inbound tourists while invigorating the local economy. This initiative is poised to connect tourists with local businesses and promote spending through engaging experiences.

The core mission of the Inbound Tech Collective is to utilize advancements in travel technology to empower local industries and events. Planned activities include connecting inbound tourists with local retail outlets through Pie Systems' platforms, thereby facilitating a smooth and enjoyable shopping experience.

Additional Initiatives to Energize the Night Economy

A noteworthy aspect of this experiment is its focus on enhancing the nighttime economy. The organizations will disseminate information aimed at stimulating night-time activities and ensuring that tourists are informed about local attractions post-sunset. This includes real-time updates about events connected to DIG SHIBUYA, and conducting surveys to better understand inbound visitor preferences and behaviors.

The data and insights gleaned from these efforts will play a pivotal role in driving future industry revitalization and tackling challenges faced by the tourism sector.

Background and Objective

As Japan's cities aim to bolster their appeal as tourist destinations by creating high-value environments, addressing related challenges is essential. This pilot project seeks to bring innovative solutions to these pressing issues. By combining technological prowess with the insights of a dynamic startup ecosystem, Shibuya Startups aims to prepare for an influx of international visitors, ultimately enhancing their experience.

Shibuya Startups is committed to fostering innovative ideas within the heart of Shibuya, and through its collaboration with Pie Systems, it aims to incorporate a global perspective and cutting-edge technologies into resolving local challenges.

The Significance of the Inbound Tech Collective

The Inbound Tech Collective will constitute a benchmark project where local businesses will collaborate with startups to conduct technological trials focused on inbound tourism. The outcomes from these discussions and implementations will be critical in identifying effective strategies for enhancing tourist engagement and experiences in Shibuya.

• - Sampling Period: 2026, February 13 to 15
• - Location: From Shibuya Station to Yoyogi Park

For further insights into this initiative, visit the official event pages DIG SHIBUYA 2026 and Inbound Tech Collective.

Complementary Marketing Initiatives

In conjunction with these trials, between February 1 and March 31, 2026, an inbound marketing experiment will roll out in the Shibuya area. This initiative aims to directly engage with inbound tourists during their stay to stimulate purchases and enhance local engagement.

Traditionally, approaches to directly reach travelers while they are active in Japan have been limited. This new strategy will launch a dedicated area page within the "PIE VAT" application, combined with coupon distribution features to provide timely information tailored to visitors' interests. This will ensure that tourists receive real-time offers and recommendations from local businesses, thus fostering an enhanced shopping experience.

Through this approach, Pie Systems is set to prove that digital technology can successfully bridge the gap between inbound tourists and regional businesses, ultimately boosting local tourism and resolving any challenges merchants may face in attracting international visitors.

About Pie Systems

Pie Systems is a San Francisco-based startup offering a platform that digitizes tax refund processes, significantly enhancing the convenience for inbound consumers.

• - Company Information

Name: Pie Systems Japan
Location: 13F GINZA SIX, 6-10-1 Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo
CEO: Hiroaki Mizuno
Business: Development and provision of the "PIE VAT" service for inbound tourists
Website: https://pievat.com/japan

About Shibuya Startups

Established in February 2023 with investment from Shibuya Ward, Tokyu Corporation, Tokyu Real Estate, and GMO Internet Group, Shibuya Startups aims to cultivate an international startup community in Shibuya, focusing on addressing Japan's societal challenges while supporting early-stage startups that harness Japan's strengths.

• - Company Information

Name: Shibuya Startups Corporation
Founded: February 2023
Business: Investment and support for early-stage startups addressing societal issues in Shibuya, as well as creating community movements
CEO: Katsuro Tasaka
Official Website: https://upshibuya.com/ja/
LinkedIn: Shibuya Startups LinkedIn

For inquiries related to this initiative, please contact: [email protected]